Boko Haram hits Nigerian city as thousands flee military operation
Kano — Boko Haram fighters attacked the northeast Nigerian city of Damaturu for the first time since late 2014, residents said, after troops forced thousands to flee a village across the state border because of a planned military offensive. “Boko Haram jihadists launched an attack on Damaturu at about 5.45pm, firing guns and throwing explosives,” Adamu Sani, a trader in the city’s Maisandari area, said. “Residents and businesses all closed as we fled into the city to avoid being caught up in the attack. While fleeing into the city, I saw truckloads of soldiers heading to Maisandari.” ‘Everybody is indoors’ Hashimu Idris, a public servant, said: “Everybody is indoors. We pray the soldiers push them back otherwise it will be another disaster in the city. “This is the first attack on the city since 2014.” Boko Haram fighters loyal to the faction headed by Abubakar Shekau launched a dawn raid on Damaturu on December 1 2014. More than 150 people, including 38 police, were killed. That ...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.